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Calangute, frequently known as the “Queen of Beaches”, is among the most famous and lively tourist spots in Goa. North Goa’s spirited beach town perfectly combines attractiveness, cultural eminence and dynamic nightlife. Several amazing places to visit in Calangute serve as a window into Goa’s rich history with its old churches, vibrant downtowns and charming art shops at its coastline. A perfect blend of tranquillity and thrill, Calangute is the ultimate Goan experience that you must explore in this charming coastal state.
13 Iconic Places To Visit In Calangute
Here is a top-picked list of the places to visit in Calangute that will help you make the most of your Calangute visit to Goa.
1. Calangute Beach
Photo: Anoop M S / Wikimedia Commons
Calangute Beach, popularly referred to as the “Queen of Beaches”, is the biggest and most powerful beach in North Goa. The beach has a lively spirit which proceeds with beautiful sands, active huts and a wide range of aquatic activities such as parasailing, motorcycling on the water, and windsurfing. This place serves as an oasis for relaxation as well as adventure. At this beach, one can bask under the sun, swim or just walk on the sandy land by the sea. You can also take delight in Goan foods and refreshing drinks served from the nearby small eateries.
Major Attractions: Water sports (parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing), beach shacks and shopping at Calangute market
Entry Fee: Free (excluding price for additional activities)
Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Goa For A Fun-Filled And Sunny Vacation
2. Reis Magos Fort
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Reis Magos Fort, on the northern bank of Mandovi River, is one of the oldest and well-preserved forts in Goa. Built in 1551, it served as both a defence post and residence for Portuguese viceroys. It has been carefully refurbished to function as a cultural place where Goan history is displayed via exhibitions and art galleries. Its hard ramparts, antique cannon guns, and scenic view of the river and Arabian Sea attract a large number of visitors. Reis Magos Fort displays Goan colonial history amidst a peaceful ambience, being one of the amazing Calangute tourist places.
Major Attractions: Historical fort, architecture and rampart exhibitions on Goa’s history and culture and art galleries within the fort
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Adults) and ₹25 (Children)
3. Dolphin Spotting Tour At Coco Beach
Photo: Rodrigo.Argenton / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dolphins’ spotting tours at Coco Beach near Calangute provide an exhilarating chance to witness dolphins playing around them. The boat rides take visitors into the Arabian Sea, where it is common to find pods of dolphins. You can easily find the famous Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, jumping and swimming alongside the boats. Usually, these tours last about 1-2 hours under the guidance of experienced local operators. Tourists get knowledge on marine life from these operators who also ensure safety during the trip.
Major Attractions: Scenic boat ride along Goa’s coastline
Entry Fee: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person
Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Goa
4. Goa Chitra Museum
Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons
The Goa Chitra Museum, one of the best tourist places in Calangute, is located in Benaulim, Goa. It is one of the Calangute musuems, very popular among people who love cultural heritage. Victor Hugo Gomes is the founder of the museum and there are over 4000 things that are exhibited. These items include agricultural tools, vintage tools, and other artefacts that tell the story of rural life in Goa. It replicates a traditional Goan village where one can learn how people lived in Goa in the past. For all history geeks, this museum is a must-visit since it gives an amazing view of Goa’s past.
Major Attractions: Extensive collection of traditional Goan artefacts, replicas of a traditional Goan village, and vintage tools.
Entry Fee: ₹100 (Adults) and ₹50 for (Children)
5. Candolim Beach
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Lying just north of Calangute is Candolim Beach, famous for being peaceful and less crowded than its neighbouring beaches. It has fine golden sand due to its soft texture and clear waves that allow one to bask in the sun. There are shacks on this beach that prepare delicious Goan dishes as well as chilled drinks. Here, being one of the best in Calangute tourist places list, you can do parasailing or jet ski rides too. Fort Aguada, located only nearby, allows visitors easy access to other places with thrilling activities. Candolim Beach offers quietness coupled with easy access to the northern beaches making it suitable for everyone.
Major Attractions: Less crowded beach environment, water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing
Entry Fee: Free (charges apply for water sports and beach activities)
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Margao
6. St. Alex Church
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
The grandeur of St. Alex Church, found in Calangute, is a satisfying illustration of Goan Roman Catholic architecture. Constructed in 1595, It displays an elaborate facade with complex and baroque-style interiors, one of the best places for Calangute trip. Stained glass windows provide a peaceful atmosphere and a magnificent altar. Furthermore, it is the mainstay of the community hosting religious events. St. Alex Church not only has historical importance but also displays great beauty in architecture. It has become one of the most tranquil places where you can learn more about Goan cultural and religious heritage.
Major Attractions: Classic Baroque architecture, ornate facade and intricately designed interior, beautiful stained glass windows
Entry Fee: Free
7. Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Photo: Aviatorjk / Wikimedia Commons
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, situated in Old Goa, is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays Baroque architecture. The basilica was established back in the year 1594 and it became popular for its breathtaking facade and an “overwhelming” interior. Among its greatest assets is the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a very influential missionary whose remains are kept in a silver casket. To adorn its majestic structure, the basilica has ornate altars with carvings done on wood and intricate paintings on walls. Due to its importance as a pilgrimage centre and historical architectural beauty; this captivates one’s attention towards the Goan past during colonial days.
Major Attractions: The tomb of St. Francis Xavier, housed in a silver casket, Stunning baroque architecture and intricate interior design
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Best Things To Do In Calangute
8. Tibetan Market
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute’s Tibetan Market is a colourful centre for unique shopping featuring a variety of Tibetan handicrafts, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs. Visitors can find complex silver jewellery, coloured prayer flags, traditional Thangka paintings and woollen items. Apart from that the market has several Tibetan accessories, bags and home decor. The liveliness of the market coupled with Tibetan workmanship gives visitors an experience away from their own culture in Goa where local charisma meets Tibetan creativity.
Major Attractions: Tibetan handicrafts, silver jewellery, Thangka paintings, prayer flags
Entry Fee: Free
9. St. Anthony’s Chapel
Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute’s St. Anthony’s Chapel is a tranquil place of worship that is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. It’s a small structure built in a simple, elegant manner and is renowned for its peacefulness making it an ideal place for reflection and prayers. People find solace from the chaos of the town at the chapel where serenity reigns supreme. The whitewashed walls, simple designs, and peacefulness around create an ideal location for tourists. In addition to offering regular religious services conducted by the Catholic community, it has feast days held in honour of the saint.
Major Attractions: Simple architecture, peaceful atmosphere, religious significance
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Calangute Nightlife
10. Benz Wax Museum & Fish Aquarium
Photo: Jerry Wang / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Discover a unique dual attraction at the Benz Wax Museum & Fish Aquarium in Calangute. The wax museum features realistic statues of famous personalities like Narendra Modi, Amitabh Bachchan, Michael Jackson, and more. Right next door, the fish aquarium showcases exotic marine species including angelfish, clownfish, and freshwater beauties in well-maintained tanks. Ideal for families and kids, this spot is one of the best tourist places in Calangute, Goa. It offers a fun mix of celebrity moments and aquatic charm, all under one roof.
Major Attractions: Lifelike wax statues of Indian and international icons; a colorful fish aquarium featuring freshwater and exotic species
Entry Fee: ₹100–₹150 per person (subject to change depending on combo tickets for museum and aquarium)
11. Shree Shantadurga Samsthaana
Photo: Sandip Nayi/ Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Shree Shantadurga Samsthaana, nestled in Calangute’s Khobra Waddo, is a serene temple dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga. The temple’s architecture showcases traditional Goan artistry, featuring intricately carved structures and beautifully landscaped gardens. Inside, the sanctum houses an exquisite idol of the goddess, adorned with vibrant flowers and offerings from devotees. It is one of the ideal places to visit in Calangute, Goa, for spiritual travellers visiting this beach town. The temple often hosts festivals and rituals, providing visitors with a glimpse into local traditions and cultural practices.
Major Attractions: Idol of Goddess Shantadurga, Goan temple architecture, peaceful spiritual setting, and festive religious rituals
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Shantadurga Temple
12. Goosebumps Virtual Escape
Photo: Mitchell Orr / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Goosebumps Virtual Escape in Calangute is Goa’s first dedicated virtual reality amusement center, offering over 35 immersive experiences that cater to all age groups. From high-speed car racing simulators and underwater scuba diving adventures to spine-chilling horror escapes and space explorations, each activity is designed to transport you into a different world. Located on the bustling Calangute-Baga Road, it also features a soft play area for kids and a cosy café for breaks.
Major Attractions: 35+ virtual reality experiences including car racing, underwater dives, horror simulations, and space adventures; indoor kids’ play zone and café
Entry Fee: ₹300–₹1000 per person
13. Holiday Street
Photo: Svetlana Gumerova / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Holiday Street is a vibrant stretch that encapsulates the lively spirit of Goa. Lined with an array of shops, eateries, and accommodations, it’s a bustling hub where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture. From boutique stores offering handcrafted souvenirs to street vendors selling Goan delicacies, there’s something for every traveller. The street’s proximity to Calangute Beach makes it one of the best places to visit in Calangute at night, after a day in the sun. Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Holiday Street offers a quintessential Goan experience.
Major Attractions: Boutique shops, beachwear outlets, cafés, tattoo studios, and quick access to Calangute Beach
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: Shopping In Goa
If you are a history lover, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday, Calangute in Goa has everything for you. Explore all the exciting places to visit in Calangute today and learn about the rich history, bustling markets, serene chapels, historical landmarks and beautiful architecture. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags quickly and plan your trip with TripXL for a memorable experience.
Cover Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
